Best Bar to Pretend You're in Mexico City

Comal

With its expansive, industrial-chic outdoor patio and constantly changing menu of strong cocktails (like the SPF2020, with rum and blood orange) and impressive tequila and mezcal flights, Comal's drinking program often outshines the lauded eating one — though the guacamole and handmade chips are unimpeachable. On Thursday nights, chilling by DJ Jose Ruiz with a mezcal cocktail and a plate of white shrimp ceviche, you'll be transported to the hippest enclaves of Mexico City. The drinks are pricey but strong, and if you sit at one of the two bars (indoor and outdoor), you can order from the full menu. If all you want are drinks and chips, you can sit on a stump around the cozy firepit, or post up at one of several large wooden tables surrounded by heaters. Since it's a restaurant, you don't need to be 21 to enjoy one of the East Bay's best bars. Those not partaking of Comal's excellent alcoholic offerings can enjoy one of several fantastic agua frescas.